Abdelrahman
Congressional Republicans Challenge Trump on 9/11 Health Program Cuts
In a notable turn of events, a group of Republican lawmakers from New York has publicly opposed President Donald J. Trump regarding budget cuts to a federal initiative that provides assistance to emergency responders and others affected by toxic exposure from the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks.
In a formal correspondence addressed to Trump, seven Republicans urged him to reconsider the reductions to the World Trade Center Health Program, highlighting his background as a native New Yorker who experienced the city’s recovery after the tragic events of 9/11. They requested the reinstatement of staff members who were recently let go.
This backlash aligns with the swift condemnation from Democratic representatives and activist groups, which arose in response to the cuts initiated late last week. These decisions are part of Elon Musk’s initiative to improve government efficiency, known as DOGE, resulting in significant budget reductions and job losses across several federal departments. On Monday, Democratic Senators from New York, Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand, sent a letter demanding the restoration of the funding.
Initially, Republican responses were somewhat subdued. However, by Wednesday, as the widespread discontent over the layoffs became apparent, dissenting voices grew stronger, particularly among lawmakers representing districts in and near New York City, where the impact of 9/11 still deeply resonates.
“This reduction in staff will hinder the program’s ability to manage its contracts and support its members—courageous individuals who rushed to help in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks,” read a portion of the letter authored primarily by Representative Andrew R. Garbarino, a Republican from Long Island. He was joined by five other GOP colleagues from New York and Representative Chris Smith from New Jersey. The signatories included Nick LaLota, Mike Lawler, Claudia Tenney, Nicole Malliotakis, and Nick Langworthy, all of whom are supporters of Trump.
As discussions unfold, it remains to be seen how the situation will impact ongoing federal initiatives and support for those affected by the tragic events of September 11.
